Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog
A devastating crash on Interstate 70 in Maryland’s Frederick County claimed two lives and left two other drivers hospitalized with serious injuries. According to a recent report, the chain of events began when a BMW SUV traveling westbound rear-ended a box truck near Exit 62 in the New Market area. The force of the impact caused the box truck to cross the grassy median into the eastbound lanes, where it collided head-on with an oncoming tractor-trailer. Both commercial vehicles veered off the road and caught fire in the adjacent wood line.
Two passengers riding in the box truck were pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of both trucks were flown to R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. Authorities have not yet released details about their conditions. Interstate 70 remained closed in both directions for hours as troopers with the Frederick Barrack conducted their investigation.
Chain-Reaction Accidents and Legal Responsibility in Maryland
This tragedy illustrates how a single negligent act, such as following too closely or speeding in traffic, can trigger a chain of destruction. Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of crashes on Maryland highways, but when larger commercial vehicles are involved, the consequences often escalate quickly. A single mistake behind the wheel can endanger not only nearby drivers but also passengers in other cars as well.
Maryland law allows injured individuals and surviving family members to pursue civil claims when someone’s negligence causes serious harm or death. In this case, investigators reported that the BMW driver’s actions directly caused the initial impact. If confirmed, that driver may be held legally responsible for damages to those injured or killed, including medical expenses, lost income, funeral costs, and compensation for pain and suffering.
Families of those who lost their lives may also file wrongful death claims under Maryland law. These claims are designed to compensate close relatives who suffer both emotional and financial losses after the death of a loved one.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes Often Involve Multiple Parties
The aftermath of this incident also shows how complex multi-vehicle collisions can become. When three or more vehicles are involved, insurance companies often attempt to shift blame. Liability may be shared among several drivers, depending on how each vehicle contributed to the chain of events. Commercial drivers and the companies they work for may also face separate legal exposure, especially if their vehicles were improperly maintained, overloaded, or if the drivers were fatigued or inadequately trained.
An experienced legal team can review accident reports, reconstruct the crash, and preserve key evidence before it is lost or destroyed. In chain-reaction cases, it is essential to understand each party’s role and identify every potential source of compensation.
Why Do Commercial Vehicles Increase the Risk of Catastrophic Harm?
The collision on I-70 involved both a box truck and a tractor-trailer, which added to the severity of the crash. These vehicles carry enormous weight and momentum, making any impact far more destructive than a collision between passenger cars. Fires are also more likely when large fuel tanks are involved, and rollovers or jackknifing can spread the damage across several lanes of traffic.
Victims of truck accidents often face long recoveries, extensive medical care, and emotional trauma that lingers well beyond the initial impact. In fatal cases, families are left grieving while navigating a complicated legal process. Maryland law provides a path to accountability, but these claims must be handled with care and attention to detail.
After a Serious Crash in Maryland, Legal Guidance Can Make the Difference
Maryland law provides victims and their families with the opportunity to pursue justice through civil claims. Investigations into chain-reaction crashes must begin quickly, before evidence fades and memories shift.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a crash involving multiple vehicles or commercial trucks, you may have a valid claim. The Maryland car accident attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen are prepared to investigate the facts, determine who is at fault, and help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you.